Its quite obvious why you might need a tune up just in time for summer. Its not doubt that heat waves and high temperatures that really move the mercury can take some adjusting to. Your car has to get adjusted to the heat to survive the dog days of summer as well.
You’ve probably seen that guy on the side of the road with their emergency flashers on just looking for a good Samaritan to stop and help on a steamy afternoon. Do you ever stop…to wonder why there are more breakdowns on sweltering afternoons? The reason has to do with the stress that the summer heat can have on your car’s battery, engine, tires, and other important components.
Ready Your Vehicle with a Tune up this Summer
Get Ready for a Scorcher: The Tire Check
Auto care pros say that you should check your tires about once every month because your tires will tend to lose about one PSI a month due to simple seepage.
Although it might seem counter-intuitive to think about initially, your tires actually gain tire pressure to the tune of 1 PSI per 10 degrees of summer heat.
Excessive heat can actually put undue stress on your tires and worsen any pre-existing problems. Some tires can increase by 5 PSI or more in the first 20 minutes of your commute, so tire pressure is definitely something to take a look at.
The culprit behind a lot of summertime tire blowouts is what’s known as dry rot. That’s when your sidewalls crack and the lubricating oils keeping your tires nice and healthy begin to evaporate…perhaps with your patience for the summer heat.
Taking your tires into All-Around Auto Repair for a tune up and tire rotation is one surefire way to stay ahead of the curve this summer. While you stop by you can enjoy a cool drink, have your tires aligned, and find out whether your spare tire is good to go.
Keep Things Cool with a Fluid Check
One of the more overlooked parts of maintaining your vehicle in the summer is making sure that your fluid levels are topped off. Your engine needs coolant so that it doesn’t overheat, and a regular flushing is one of the most critical parts of any vehicle tune up. The overflow reservoir will let you know whether your engine is getting enough coolant.
That’s probably not something that you should check yourself, though, because removing the radiator cap without proper protection can lead to serious injury if your coolant has been under too much pressure.
Of course, that’s something that will be looked at during a comprehensive tuneup at All-Around Auto Repair. When you take your car in for a tune up you’ll also have your power steering inspected and brake fluid topped off.
Speaking of brakes, in the wintertime you’re probably used to your brakes sticking, but in the summertime you have to also worry about brake components being unable to absorb more heat and work properly as well as an issue known as brake fading.
The experienced technicians at All-Around Auto Repair know how to keep your brakes working smoothly in the heat. They’ll also make sure that your transmission fluid and motor oil are optimized to make sure your transmission and engine work at their best when things might be running hot under the hood.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Even after taking your vehicle in for a tune up at All-Around Auto Repair, realize that accidents can happen. Consider keeping an emergency kit in your car stocked with the essentials: wrapped food like crackers, water, road flares, jumper cables, your AAA card, and at least one flashlight. Though you can’t control everything, a regular tune up should keep you out of heat.
FAQ: Summer Vehicle Maintenance
1. Why is summer vehicle maintenance crucial?
Summer vehicle maintenance is essential because high temperatures can stress your car’s components, leading to potential breakdowns. The heat can cause your engine to overheat, tires to wear out faster, and fluids to deplete. Regular maintenance, including checking coolant levels and tire pressure, helps prevent these issues and ensures your car runs smoothly during the hot months.
2. How does heat affect tire pressure and what should I do?
Heat significantly impacts tire pressure. For every 10-degree increase in temperature, your tire pressure can rise by about 1 PSI. This means during a hot summer day, your tires could be over-inflated, leading to blowouts or uneven wear. To mitigate this, regularly check your tire pressure and adjust it according to the recommended levels in your vehicle’s manual.
3. What’s the importance of checking coolant levels in summer?
Coolant is crucial for regulating engine temperature and preventing overheating. In the summer, high temperatures increase the demand on your cooling system. Ensuring your coolant levels are adequate helps avoid engine damage and maintains optimal performance. It’s advisable to have your coolant system checked and flushed as part of your summer vehicle tune-up.
4. How can dry rot affect my tires in hot weather?
Dry rot, caused by the degradation of rubber due to exposure to heat and sunlight, can weaken tire sidewalls. This can lead to dangerous blowouts and reduced tire lifespan. Regularly inspect your tires for signs of dry rot and have them replaced if necessary. Also, ensure they are properly aligned and balanced to reduce strain during hot weather.
5. What should I include in my summer emergency kit for my vehicle?
A summer emergency kit should include essentials like water, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, road flares, jumper cables, and your AAA card. These items can be lifesavers if you experience a breakdown or emergency situation. Additionally, include a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications for added safety.
6. How does high temperature affect vehicle fluids?
High temperatures can cause vehicle fluids like engine oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid to break down more quickly. This can lead to reduced lubrication and overheating. Regularly check and top off these fluids, and schedule a comprehensive fluid check during your summer maintenance to keep everything running smoothly.
7. Why is a tune-up important before summer?
A summer tune-up helps prepare your vehicle for the added strain of high temperatures. It includes checking the engine, tires, brakes, and fluids to ensure they can handle the heat. By addressing potential issues before they become serious, you can avoid breakdowns and ensure your car performs well throughout the summer.
8. What are the signs that my vehicle needs a summer tune-up?
Signs that your vehicle may need a summer tune-up include overheating, poor air conditioning performance, unusual noises from the engine, and decreased fuel efficiency. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to have your car inspected by a professional to address any underlying issues.
9. How can brake performance be affected by summer heat?
Summer heat can cause brake components to expand and affect their performance. Brake fluid can also become less effective, leading to potential brake fade or reduced stopping power. Regularly check your brake system during summer maintenance to ensure it’s functioning correctly and address any issues promptly.
10. What are the benefits of getting a professional vehicle tune-up in summer?
A professional vehicle tune-up in summer ensures that all critical components of your car are inspected and maintained to handle the heat. Benefits include improved engine performance, enhanced safety, better fuel efficiency, and reduced risk of breakdowns. Professionals can also catch and fix issues that might not be apparent to the average driver.
